alternative medicine health care, complementary and alternative medicineSince I became pregnant with my son almost six years ago, I have researched the fields of alternative medicine health care and alternative medical doctors.  I had heard of friends seeking this type of medical treatment during their pregnancies before, and my first question was, "what is alternative medicine?"

Alternative medicine broadly describes methods and practices used in place of conventional medical treatments. It may also be described as "diagnosis, treatment, or therapy which can be provided legally by persons who are not licensed to diagnose and treat illness", although some licensed practitioners also use aspects of alternative medicine. 

I hesitated to use or take any traditional antibiotics or drugs in order to treat illnesses and medical issues that arose during my pregnancy.  I decided, instead, to search for an alternative medicine doctor who practiced both complementary and alternative medicine. Complementary medicine uses both alternative medicine methods and practices alongside conventional medical treatment.

I eventually found a doctor who incorporated both methods of Western medicine and holistic approach, who soon had me on the road to natural health care.  I did pilates and yoga as a means of de-stressing, and a combination of herbs and oils to relax and sleep at night.  I only wish I had sought alternative medicine health care years ago!